I guess I hadn't really mentioned the overall plan yet because it's going to be next summer before it gets done, but never to early to plan I suppose. The car is my restored 1970 Plymouth Satellite. A 318/904 car originally. A weekend driver that would see hopefully around 3000 miles a year of driving made up of city and highway. The rear gearing is 3.55 with Yukon gears and posi. The rear springs were already upgraded to the heavier GTX units. I think the dream of a 4 speed car has been cancelled, and I'll be happy with the 727. The car has power steering and power brakes. My car will never see a race track. For me it's about reliability and having an enjoyable car that still pushes you back into the seat when you lean into the throttle a bit. My car is a drum brake all the way around car, and I may look to discs up front in the future. I've already had the 2.5" dual exhaust with 40 series Flowmasters installed, so I think I've got enough flow in the exhaust. I will be running headers on this car with the 440, and not manifolds. The car needs to be able to idle nicely and sit in traffic during those times when I'm out in rush hour. I've already found a 26" radiator to re-core that should keep temps reasonable. As I'd mentioned earlier, as this is my first engine build, I'm keeping things simple. A compression ratio of around 9-1 would be best I think. Will probably use the original intake although I will be changing to a non lean burn thermoquad. I haven't done much research on distributor/ignition yet, and welcome any and all thoughts. Regarding valve springs, I wouldn't know where to begin. I guess I would look at ordering a complete cam kit that comes with everything. I'm looking for 325hp and 375torque, or there abouts. If it's a little more that's fine, but cost is a factor and as long as they aren't cracked or beyond use, I'll stick with the 452 heads. $2000 in head work or aluminum heads just isnt in the budget right now. Being in Canada, you have to add about 35% to whatever price you see on Jegs or Summit.
Well, that's about it. Always appreciate the tips and questions. The next step is to get the heads disassembled and get everything to the machine shop this week. Have to make sure everything is usable before I start buying parts. Have a great week all.